Wsl: Error: This update only applies to machines with Windows Subsystem for Linux

[cnotti]

I executed the wsl_update_x64 file without following any of the additional steps required to update from wsl to wsl2. It seemed to run without any issues, however, as I had not completed the other required steps, it didn't upgrade me to wsl2.

Now when executing the wsl_update_x64 file after completing the additional required steps to upgrade, I get the error: "This update only applies to machines with Windows Subsystem for Linux" and I am stuck with version 1.

Any advise on how to get the file to execute under these circumstances?

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Document details

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• ID: 5d720f69-aff2-38d8-f0c6-9909e94acaa2
• Version Independent ID: 9d121625-e741-6d20-f3de-201a939290b8
• Content: Updating the WSL 2 Linux kernel
• Content Source: WSL/wsl2-kernel.md
• Product: dev-environment
• Technology: windows-subsystem-for-linux
• GitHub Login: @craigloewen-msft
• Microsoft Alias: crloewen

[baonguyenhcm]

Just go to "Apps & features", scroll down until you see "Windows subsystem for Linux Update".
Uninstall it then re-install.

[cnotti]

I have just got it working by running wsl_update_x64 from powershell with admin rights as opposed to double clicking.

[Pearseak]

It won't prompt for elevated permissions,need to be rum from elevated cli

[ACure4IT]

Ensure to run wsl_update_x64.msi as an admin!

[alexsvt2]

@baonguyenhcm Thanks, now is working!

[noseratio]

I eventually got it installed by running:

wsudo msiexec -fav wsl_update_x64.msi

Disclaimer: I'm the author of wsudo.

Thanks @craigloewen-msft for bringing me here. Would https://github.com/microsoft/WSL be a more proper to report issues?

[sonook]

Here the fix for the issue.

https://youtu.be/4czn-4uu65c

[ShubhamCanMakeCommit]

Restarting my machine solved the issue.

[Akela1101]

For me the solution was to go to "Apps & Features" / "Programs & Features" / "Turn Windows features on or off", and check the "Windows Subsystem for Linux".

Somehow that setting was unchecked.